Don't broadcast your SSID. Use the best encryption available (WPA/PSK on mine), and use the biggest available password (randomly generated 64 character). That doesn't grand you 100% absoolute security, since that doesn't exist, but it get's you damn close.

I don't think anyone around here is smart enough for that. Especially since this thing only broadcasts ~1300 feet (radius). I'm on WPA2, not randomly generated, but it's decently obscure... cause it's important for me to remember it... as I have 4 computers to network to it. (new laptop and desktop eventually)

You'll probably be fine. The people that want to take advantage of your network are going to look for the easiest connection to exploit. That said, not broadcasing your SSID is still a good idea. It's probably the best bit of security that you can have.

there are two other networks that are unsecured in the area... and one other that is available that is secured. (and that's that my 4 year old laptop finds... the buddy's new laptop finds like 6 or 7, and only 1 more is secured)

Don't broadcast your SSID. Use the best encryption available (WPA/PSK on mine), and use the biggest available password (randomly generated 64 character). That doesn't grand you 100% absoolute security, since that doesn't exist, but it get's you damn close.

You'll probably be fine. The people that want to take advantage of your network are going to look for the easiest connection to exploit. That said, not broadcasing your SSID is still a good idea. It's probably the best bit of security that you can have.

I don't broadcast mine and the name is something I'm sure no one could guess...it would take a program generating ssid's in order to figure it out...then there is the random key like you mentioned...if someone wants to use my net...they better have some time on their hands...

However, the best security I have...is my house. I can barely remain connected outside the walls of my house...something in the walls...in fact, while inside, my cell phone does not work....the 5.4 mhz cordless phone won't work if you are more than a room away from the base...it is pretty magical...almost my own cone of silence...

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I don't broadcast mine and the name is something I'm sure no one could guess...it would take a program generating ssid's in order to figure it out...then there is the random key like you mentioned...if someone wants to use my net...they better have some time on their hands...

However, the best security I have...is my house. I can barely remain connected outside the walls of my house...something in the walls...in fact, while inside, my cell phone does not work....the 5.4 mhz cordless phone won't work if you are more than a room away from the base...it is pretty magical...almost my own cone of silence...